Zoonoses in the night

Bats harbour many viruses. A large number of these are potentially zoonotic. Transmission can take place via direct contact or via fomites, contaminated food or hosts, such as cats. Little is known about the potential risks for public health of the bat viruses in the Netherlands.

Virus diversity in bats in the Netherlands

Wageningen University & Research researchers are participating in a study that will indicate the overall virus diversity in bats in the country; the potential transmission risks to people; and the risk perception, knowledge and practices of professionals and volunteers and the general public towards bats and their pathogens. This will serve as a base for risk surveillance and prevention.